HVAC Home

What is an Electronically Commutated Motor (ECM) and why do you want it "Inside"?

ECM is a brushless DC motor with all of its speed and torque controls built in. This allows the motor to adjust its speed to ensure the optimal airflow at all times. In addition, ECMs are considerably quieter and less expensive to operate than conventional furnace fans.

ECMs use significantly less electricity to deliver the warm air from the furnace and the cool air from the CAC throughout your home. With their adjustable speed design, furnaces with an ECM operate with as little as 80 watts of electricity. That's as much as 75% less energy than standard fan motors which run on high most of the time.

Forced Air Furnaces (gas, electric, propane, oil) equipped with an Electronically Commutated Motor (ECM) inside have lower annual operating costs (25–75% less) depending on how you use the furnace fan. Some homeowners choose to run their fan continuously to help even out warm and cold spots in their home or to provide extra air filtration which may be valued due to health concerns. Ask a participating contractor about installing a new Forced Air Furnace with integrated variable speed ECM.

If your current furnace or heat pump is less than 10 years old, it may be the perfect time to replace the standard, ineffective PSC motor with a high efficiency ECM Replacement Fan Motor. Simply contact an ECM replacement motor participating contractor and tell him or her you want an "ECM Inside."

Request an "ECM Inside" when working with a contractor on a heat pump installation. Check out the ASHP Combo Rebate and the GSHP Combo Rebate with ECM inside.

Must be installed by a participating contractor to qualify for a rebate. Limit one per dwelling.

What are the benefits of an ECM in a Forced Air Furnace or Heat Pump Air Handler?

• Lower annual operating costs (25–75% per year) based on usage
• You save energy every time your HVAC system is operating (every unit of energy (kWh) saved is one less you have to pay for)
• As little as 80 watts of power required for operation—that's less than a standard electric light bulb
• Reduced temperature fluctuation
• Quieter running system
• Easier to maintain an even temperature throughout the home
• Increased comfort
• Lower drying effect of indoor air during the winter heating season
• Reduced stale air and improved air quality

What more can I do to get the most out of my heating and cooling system?

1. Develop an Action Plan to get the most for your energy dollar.
2. Insulate and air seal to stop air leaks and bypasses in your home.
3. Change the filter on your furnace regularly.
4. Participate in the Power of One® Portal to find out about special offers and no cost or low cost ways to save energy through everyday choices and to schedule an in-home energy assesment.
5. Tune up your furnace or heat pump regularly.
6. Visit Where Do I Begin? for additional ways to get the most for your heating and cooling dollar.